This 14 day holiday combines the culture and nightlife of Lima; the wonderful mountain scenery, ancient ruins and traditions of Cusco; and the famous Inca Trail, a four-day hike across the Andes ending in Machu Picchu.
Itinerary in brief |
| Day 1: | Fly from UK to Lima (2 nights). |
| Day 2: | Optional Colonial Lima excursion. |
| Day 3: | Fly to Cusco (4 nights). |
| Day 4: | Optional Inca Cusco excursion. |
| Day 5: | Free day in Cusco. |
| Day 6: | Optional Sacred Valley excursion. |
| Day 7: | Start the Inca Trail (3 nights). |
| Day 8: | Inca Trail. |
| Day 9: | Inca Trail. |
| Day 10: | Morning arrival at Machu Picchu. Afternoon journey back to Cusco (2 nights). |
| Day 11: | Free day in Cusco. |
| Day 12: | Fly to Lima (1 night). |
| Day 13: | Free day in Lima. Evening flight to the UK. |
| Day 14: | Evening arrival in the UK. |
Overview
Lima, on the Pacific coast, was the most important and magnificent city in South America for the Spanish. Visit the colonial district and some of the finest museums in the world, with amazing collections of pre-Hispanic treasures.
Cusco, majestic capital of the Inca Empire, is set in a valley 3,300m high in the Andes and has a unique charm and a relaxed atmosphere. Explore the city, a blend of Inca and Spanish styles, then salsa the night away. Visit the nearby Sacred Valley of the Incas. Take a breathtaking trip to Machu Picchu, lost city of the Incas, set in stunning mountain scenery or alternatively, walk the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Staying in Cusco, you can experience ancient cultures, wonderful scenery, lively festivals and colourful markets. There is also hiking, mountain biking, white water rafting, horse riding, paragliding and even hot air ballooning.
The Inca Trail is a spectacular four-day hike starting in the Sacred Valley, rising through the Andes, before descending again to the cloud forest of Machu Picchu. The scenery constantly changes as you climb and descend, and you are rewarded with some of the finest mountain views on earth. There is no better way to arrive at Machu Picchu than on foot at the Sun Gate at dawn, visiting the ruins in the early morning light before most of the tourists arrive. Our trek includes porters to carry everything, including your personal belongings; cooks who prepare a varied menu; tents for your 3 nights on the trail; and a guide who will explain the different Inca sites you pass.Although most people have no problems, the Inca Trail reaches altitudes of 4,200m, so you should have a good level of fitness. A Short Inca Trail option is also available. Recent changes in regulations have limited the number of people allowed on the Inca Trail. Therefore, we recommend booking well in advance.